Reduce the chances you’ll end up in a motorcycle wreck

Let’s talk about motorcycle safety.

If you’re a motorcyclist, you know that any accident could leave you seriously injured or even dead, so it’s important to do whatever you can to mitigate your risks.

Since knowledge gives you the power to plan ahead and watch out for trouble, take some time to learn about the most common hazards you may face on the road:

1. Vehicles making a left

That car just sitting there waiting to turn at the light can actually be a serious threat to your safety if the driver doesn’t see you.

2. Rapid lane-changers

Some drivers just can’t stand another vehicle to get ahead of them and will abruptly change lanes to avoid this. Unfortunately, your bike may be in their blind spot when they do it — which means you’re going to crash.

3. Debris in the road

Anything from gravel to grass clippings can catch your front wheel and cause you to wipe out. You have to train yourself to keep scanning for trouble ahead on the road at all times.

4. An open car door

It happens all the time: The driver of a parked car will open their door without looking, assuming that any vehicle will just go around. If you’re riding your motorcycle too closely, you can end up seriously hurt after slamming into their door.

5. A bump from behind

What might be nothing more than a minor accident between two passenger cars can be fatal to a biker. When a car follows you too closely, you’re in danger of being rear-ended any time you stop. Get some distance between you.

Knowing what to guard against can help you strategize the next time you’re on the road. For all of your experience and caution, you can still end up the victim of another driver’s negligence. If you’re injured in a motorcycle accident through no fault of your own, find out how you can claim the compensation you’re due.